Garbage Disposal Problems: Common Issues and Fixes Made Simple

A garbage disposal is one of the most useful tools in the kitchen, helping to grind and wash away food waste. But like any machine, it can stop working properly over time. Strange noises, clogs, or a unit that won’t turn on are all signs that something is wrong. Taking action early can save you from costly repairs.

It’s Not Turning On

One of the most common problems is when the garbage disposal doesn’t turn on at all. First, check if it’s plugged in. Sometimes, it can come loose without you noticing. If it’s plugged in and still not working, press the reset button on the bottom of the unit. It’s usually red and easy to spot.

If the problem continues, don’t try to fix electrical issues yourself. Contacting expert plumbing services near me Hawthorn Woods IL is the safest choice. They’ll know if the problem is in the wiring or the motor.

It’s Making a Loud or Strange Noise

If your garbage disposal makes loud grinding or rattling noises, something might be stuck inside. Turn it off right away. Never put your hand in the disposal. Instead, use tongs or pliers to gently remove anything blocking the blades. Common items include silverware, bones, or fruit pits.

If there’s no object inside and the sound doesn’t go away, the internal parts might be worn out. A professional from plumbing services near me Hawthorn Woods IL can check it and suggest if it needs a repair or replacement.

It Drains Slowly

A slow-draining disposal usually means there’s a clog in the pipes. This happens when food like pasta, rice, or potato peels build up and block the drain. You can try pouring a mix of hot water and dish soap down the drain. Avoid using chemical cleaners, as they can damage the unit.

If the clog doesn’t clear, it’s best to get help from plumbing services in Hawthorn Woods IL. They have tools that safely remove clogs without harming your pipes.

It Smells Bad

A bad smell from your garbage disposal is a sign that food is stuck inside and rotting. You can clean it by grinding a few ice cubes with lemon or orange peels. This helps remove the leftover bits and freshens up the smell.

Still, if the smell keeps coming back, there could be a deeper problem. It’s a good idea to schedule a checkup with plumbing services in Hawthorn Woods IL to clean the disposal properly and avoid future issues.

Water Is Leaking

Leaks from your garbage disposal can come from different places—where it connects to the sink, the dishwasher line, or the drain pipe. If you see water under your sink, wipe it dry and try to find where the leak is coming from.

Fixing a leak can be tricky and messy. That’s why calling plumbing services near me Hawthorn Woods IL is the smart move. They’ll seal the leak correctly and stop water damage before it gets worse.

Final Thoughts

Garbage disposals make kitchen cleanup easy, but they need proper care. From strange noises to clogs or bad smells, every problem has a simple fix if caught early. Don’t wait too long, or small issues can turn into big problems. If you’re unsure what to do, let the experts at plumbing services near me Hawthorn Woods IL handle it. They’ll get your disposal working like new in no time.